Mom. Wife. Advocate. Legislator. Regina Young began this work by bringing children to various spaces and places. They asked questions, so she worked to better help them understand the world around them. She wanted them and everyone around her to know that you too can create the environment you want to see. She is a former teacher, social service worker, certified grief and HIV counselor, community organizer, now legislator. She believes collaboration is key when building communities.
Is there anything you are working on that you wish more people knew about?
Highlighting civic engagement is a priority for Team Young. There are several pieces of legislation that have passed in the house, but are still waiting in the senate. I really want to create more opportunities for everyone to engage in the civic process. If everyone really understood the power of their voice, we would see a major shift in systems, communities and families. If you are someone who wants to learn more about their power? Le’t’s connect.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women leaders?
I believe women were born with an innate sense of purpose. We have to feed that inner voice because that voice will drive and guide you. Far too often, we have allowed the ascription of others to inform us of who we are. My advice would be to drown out the other voices and feed what fuels you towards something bigger. When purpose is absent from a plan, it’s just passion. Stay focused.
What can Pennsylvania policymakers do to support the interests of women across the commonwealth?
When creating policy, we must address the needs of the overall good. Holding each other accountable, while remaining accessible to our constituents is extremely important. We have to check our emotions at the door and focus on common-sense policies that are beneficial to those of us with aligned agendas. Being a public official is not easy. Nobody wants to have continued judgment attached to them, but we realize that change never came out of convenience.
